A JUDGE has delayed a case to decide to see if a burglar can stay out of jail and be rehabilitated in the community. 

We previously reported that drug addict Joshua Philpott sneaked into an exclusive city home and used a stolen bank card to treat himself to beer and a kebab.

Philpott carried out the burglary at a house in St George's Square in Barbourne, Worcester - one of the most prestigious parts of the city known for its large and elegant Georgian homes.

Malvern Gazette: CASE: Joshua Philpott appeared on videolink to Worcester Crown CourtCASE: Joshua Philpott appeared on videolink to Worcester Crown Court (Image: West Mercia Police)

During the burglary overnight on June 28 and 29, he stole a wallet, cash cards, iPads, an iMac, Bluetooth speakers and car keys - though not the car.

Philpott has previously admitted 24 thefts, three charges of fraud by false representation and the burglary. 

Philpott's stealing spree took place between April and June this year with him stealing various items including food, drink, cleaning and laundry items from stores including ASDA, Co-op, Homebase, Iceland and Tesco Express in Worcester. 

Philpott is currently remanded in custody at HMP Hewell and he appeared on videolink to Worcester Crown Court on Friday (September 1) for sentence. 


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But at the start of the hearing his counsel, Abigail Nixon, explained to His Honour Judge Jonathan Salmon that she was making a request to adjourn. 

She explained his pre-sentence report had highlighted a new found motivation to stop taking drugs - the cause of his offending - and "get back into a law-abiding lifestyle". 

Miss Nixon said his grandmother was offering stable accommodation in Malvern, or potentially he could work with the care farm Willowdene. 

She said an adjournment was needed to explore these options further. 

Malvern Gazette: CASE: Philpott's case was heard at Worcester Crown CourtCASE: Philpott's case was heard at Worcester Crown Court (Image: Newsquest)

The judge told Philpott he would adjourn for the defence to look into those areas but stressed he was making no promise it meant the defendant would avoid jail. 

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Joshua will be sentenced at the court on October 12.

We reported last January how Philpott stole a student’s bike while he had a McDonald’s then went on a shoplifting spree, taking designer goods including a Hugo Boss tracksuit.

Joshua Philpott was jailed after he targeted several shops in Worcester including JD Sports, House of Fraser, TK Maxx, the Co-op and Marks and Spencer during a shoplifting spree for designer goods and booze.